*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*
If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.
*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*
*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*
*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*
*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*
333 City Blvd W # 1700
Orange, California 92868
I have been using Jason Hamilton from Keep it Simple Planning as my Financial Advisor for the last three years. I am impressed with his knowledge and attention to detail. He does an outstanding job managing my investments. Like his firm is named, he keeps it simple to make it easy to understand. He provides outstanding tools for tracking your investments. I highly recommend him. He offers a complimentary meeting to get you started.
If you are looking to get your financial life in order and get advice on the world of investing then you must schedule a meeting with Jason. He is incredibly knowledgeable and knows what he is doing. Jason is very kind and makes the whole experience very comfortable and fun. My financial situation has changed since I started following what was taught. I am so grateful and happy to have made the decision to get some advice. Schedule an appointment I highly recommend him!
Jason is great! I have been a saver my whole life and Jason convinced me with 95% certainty that I would not run out of money if I followed the retirement spending plan that we created. I had looked for an adviser like Jason and had just about given up hope of finding one that did not insist on managing my portfolio for an annual fee based on size of portfolio. Jason is creative and very good at explaining difficult financial concepts, he will personalize a plan according to to your particular needs and s
Jason, is amazing at simplifying and helping me understand the importance of saving and planning for my retirement. In our first session he sat down with me and taught me how the stock market works and various concepts within the retirement planning process. He then showed me what can be possible if I start saving and investing now while I am still young. After having spent time teaching me the various retirement concepts and answering my questions. He helped me create a savings plan that is right for me. I
Jason is absolutely phenomenal. He is remarkably thorough, attentive, detail-oriented, considerate, patient, trustworthy, ethical, realistic, insightful, intelligent, knowledgeable, kind, and caring. Regardless of the kind of help you seek, Jason is unequivocally the best choice. Look no further.
Jason is amazing at simplifying and explaining retirement concepts and strategies so normal people can understand them. He is a fiduciary, so legally obligated to do what's best for his clients, not what pays him the most. He is super knowledgeable, resourceful, a problem solver and will help you no matter what stage you are financially in life. Appreciate the free initial consultation and the amazing Facebook group he create as a resource to answer retirement questions!!
Jason is extremely knowledgeable yet helps his clients to understand the intricacies of financial planning. He is always positive thinking, even in negative financial times, and is extremely trustworthy. I highly recommend the use of his and his team's services.
Jason is extremely knowledgeable in what he does and has educated me on so many different aspects of financial planning. More importantly, he cares about his clients and wants to help people change their lives and invest in their future. Highly Recommend!
I used to be someone who had no idea anything about money management, let alone finances. This was a habit that I grew into through childhood and then adulthood. Ever since that point, I have tried to learn as much as I can about finances in order to be more secure. My favorite source for this knowledge is Jason J. Hamilton ? the lessons you find here are exactly what you need for your particular situation!
Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.
Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.
A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.
Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.
Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.
Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.
Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.
Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.
Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.
During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.
Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.
Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.
For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.
Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.
Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.